The UK government has announced a package of artificial intelligence initiatives aimed at helping people find work and develop skills for a changing labour market. At the centre of the plan is a new AI assistant designed to provide careers advice, support job applications and help users build CVs.
The measures are being launched as ministers seek to increase access to technology-based training and address concerns about unemployment, particularly among young people. The announcements coincide with the start of London Tech Week, where government and industry figures are discussing the impact of technological change on society and the economy.
AI Assistant to Provide Careers Guidance and CV Support
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to outline the plans in a speech on Monday, promising that technological change should benefit people across the country rather than a limited group. According to reports, the government wants to ensure that “no community” is left behind as new technologies become more widely adopted.
A new AI assistant developed by the Department for Work and Pensions will be trialled online for around three months. The tool will provide 24-hour guidance for people seeking employment, including support with CV creation, job applications and career development.
Downing Street has described the service as a “Jobcentre in your pocket”, offering personalised advice intended to help users navigate employment opportunities. Speaking ahead of the announcement, Sir Keir said: “No-one doubts the huge potential of tech to change lives. But we have to decide who that change is for.”
He added that the government’s position is that “the tech revolution must work for everyone, not just a privileged few”, while linking investment in technology to jobs, skills and economic opportunity.
The announcement comes amid wider debate about the labour market. According to reports, the British Chambers of Commerce has warned that unemployment could increase by more than 400,000 by the end of 2028 compared with 2024 levels.
Training Programmes Target Young People and Future Skills
Alongside the AI assistant, ministers have announced several education and training initiatives focused on younger people and those at risk of falling out of work or education. Around 400,000 pupils in some of the most disadvantaged schools will be offered AI and technology training as part of efforts to improve employment prospects. The government has also confirmed that more than 50 AI companies have submitted bids to develop AI tutoring tools.
An AI bootcamp scheme is scheduled to be rolled out across England during the summer. The programme is intended to support people who are at risk of unemployment or becoming disengaged from education and training by providing access to resources designed to improve employability.
The measures arrive against a backdrop of concern about the number of young people not in education, employment or training. Office for National Statistics figures published earlier this year estimated that around 957,000 people aged between 18 and 24 were classified as NEETs.
Separately, Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the government would be prepared to take larger stakes in fast-growing British companies as part of efforts to support domestic innovation and discourage successful firms from moving overseas to expand. He said ministers intended to be “aggressively ambitious” in backing British businesses as they scale.
